Leading Causes of Deaths While Traveling Abroad

When traveling abroad United States citizens face a number of risks, from road safety conditions to bands of pickpockets to drowning. According to the World Health Organization, such injuries sustained while abroad account for far more deaths than from infectious diseases. Thankfully many risks can be mitigated through careful planning and taking safety precautions.

During the two year period from 2007 to 2009, a total of 2,352 United States citizens died because of injuries and violence while traveling in foreign countries. While the number one contributing factor to deaths is road traffic safety, 18% of deaths were a result of homicide. Violent deaths are more common in low income countries than higher income, but in today’s global landscape all destinations pose some kind of threat to travelers.

Homicides are rarely a random act of violence in that they typically stem from some kind of altercation, whether its an argument in a late night bar or a theft that starts to go wrong. As a traveller there are precautions you can take to avoid being targeted, instigating an argument or amplifying an altercation. The most important thing to remember is that no possession or sense of pride is worth risking your life.

Violence that eventually turns into homicide tends to be targeted toward American citizens who others perceive as wealthy or easy targets. Depending on where you are in the world, wearing your finest clothes and jewelry for a night out might not be the best strategy in keeping a low profile. Similarly, too many tourists inadvertently tempt thieves by making their wallet or passport in plain sight and easily accessible.

What can you do to avoid being targeted in a foreign country? Try to blend in as much as possible and adhere to the cultural standards that are relevant to a particular area. Never be flashy with your clothing or jewelry, as now is not the time to show off your most expensive wears.

Most importantly, keep your valuable possessions carefully hidden away using zippered pockets tucked underneath your clothing. Only take out your wallet or passport when absolutely necessary. Limiting access to your valuables with Clever Travel Companion is one way to avoid becoming a statistic of the World Health Organization.